What Causes Rainbows In Crystals?

Rainbows in crystals are caused by the refraction and reflection of light as it passes through the crystal. When light enters a crystal, it is bent, or refracted, as it passes through the crystal due to the difference in the refractive indices of the crystal and the surrounding air. This refraction causes the light to be split into its component wavelengths, which creates a spectrum of colors.

In addition to refraction, rainbows in crystals can also be caused by the reflection of light off of the internal surfaces of the crystal. When light is reflected off of the internal surfaces of a crystal, it is also split into its component wavelengths, which creates a spectrum of colors.

Crystals with a high refractive index and a high internal surface area, such as quartz, are more likely to produce rainbows when light passes through them. Crystals with a low refractive index and a low internal surface area, such as calcite, are less likely to produce rainbows.

Rainbows in crystals are often considered to be a sign of the crystal's energy and are believed to have spiritual or healing properties.